The European Hematology Association (EHA)

About us

Gender Equality Plan

Introduction

The European Hematology Association (EHA) is committed to advancing world-class scientific research in hematology and ensuring that this research has a profound impact on society. A crucial aspect of our mission is fostering an inclusive scientific culture, which recognizes and prioritizes equality and diversity in all its forms. This includes diversity in gender, cultural and ethnic background, ability, age, sexual orientation, talents, and personal qualities.

EHA recognizes that diversity fosters innovation and creativity, and that a broad range of perspectives contributes to cutting-edge scientific progress. Gender equality, equal opportunities, and social safety in science are key themes that are at the forefront of both European and global discussions. This commitment aligns with the European Union’s gender equality goals and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In light of this, the EHA has developed this Gender Equality Plan (GEP), which outlines our strategic approach, goals, and actions to promote gender equality within our organization and the broader hematology community.

Our approach

Diversity, equity, and inclusion is a growing priority for EHA as we look to the future

Our approach is threefold:

  1. We aim to influence the scientific community.
  2. Strengthen our own organization’s practices.
  3. Ensure the sustainability of our diversity and inclusion efforts.

Strategic goals

1. Enhancing gender equality the scientific community

  • EHA supports gender equality in all aspects of hematology, from events, grant allocations to collaborative partnerships and publications.
  • We encourage a more inclusive approach to addressing potential gender bias and fostering an equitable review process.

2. Promoting gender equality in leadership

  • EHA aims to maintain our gender balance in leadership positions, including board members, committee members, and event speakers.
  • We take concrete steps to eliminate barriers that prevent the advancement of underrepresented groups in leadership roles.

3. Ensuring a gender-inclusive work environment

  • As an employer, EHA strives to create a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment for all employees, free from discrimination or harassment.
  • We have policies and practices that ensure equal opportunities for career advancement, including those from women and gender diverse people.

Implementation plan for gender equality

The Gender Equality Plan (GEP) is designed to be a living document, reflecting both our short- and long-term strategies. Our efforts will continue based on areas that have already been implemented.

1. Resources and capacity building

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force

EHA has established a dedicated team responsible for promoting equality within the association and the wider scientific community. This team will oversee the implementation of the GEP, ensuring that necessary resources are allocated.

Budget allocation

A dedicated budget will be made available to fund initiatives that promote gender equality in organizational practices.

Gender equality in our community policies

The association will ensure that gender equality is considered in the evaluation of activities, by offering training to mitigate unconscious bias and by promoting inclusive research topics.

2. Data collection and monitoring

Annual reports

EHA will publish annual reports that include gender representation within the association’s workforce, governance, and in all activities linked to the association. This will allow us to monitor our progress and identify areas requiring further intervention.

Data transparency

EHA will establish data dashboards to monitor and report on the gender distribution of grant recipients, committee members, and employees.

Regular surveys

We will conduct employee and member surveys to assess the inclusivity of our work environment and measure perceptions of gender equality within the association.

3. Training and awareness

Inclusive assessment training

EHA will offer training to the Board, committees, Specialized Working Group members, and employees on how to recognize and eliminate implicit bias in the review and selection processes for grants and leadership roles.

Gender awareness workshops

These workshops will focus on raising awareness of gender biases and providing strategies to counter them, particularly in research leadership, grant assessments, and hiring processes.

Capacity building for leadership

We will introduce leadership programs aimed at promoting gender diversity in senior positions within the organization.

4. Gender equality in recruitment and career development

Inclusive recruitment

EHA will revise recruitment and job descriptions to ensure they are gender-neutral and inclusive. All those involved in recruitment will undergo training to prevent unconscious bias.

Career advancement

We will create clear pathways for career advancement, particularly for women and gender diverse people, including mentoring programs and professional development opportunities.

Support for work-life balance

EHA will introduce flexible work policies and parental leave that support a healthy work-life balance, enabling employees to manage career and family commitments equally.

5. Addressing gender-based harassment and violence

Clear reporting mechanisms

EHA will implement clear, confidential reporting procedures for addressing complaints of gender-based harassment or discrimination, including sexual harassment.

Anti-harassment training

All employees and our board will be trained to recognize and prevent gender-based violence and harassment in the workplace and in academic settings. Awareness campaigns will seek to inform our members and partners.

Key initiatives

Gender equity in leadership programs

EHA will establish mentorship and leadership programs to empower women and gender diverse people to pursue leadership roles in hematology. These programs will include tailored workshops and networking opportunities with influential leaders in the field.

Inclusive scientific conferences

EHA will actively encourage gender diversity in conference speaker lineups and panel discussions. We will prioritize gender-balanced panels and strive to have at least 40% female representation among speakers and moderators at every event.

Monitoring and evaluation

EHA will establish regular reviews and evaluations of gender equality measures to ensure they are achieving intended outcomes. We will adjust and improve our initiatives as necessary, based on data and feedback.

Conclusion

The European Hematology Association is committed to creating a culture of gender equality and inclusivity within hematology. This Gender Equality Plan provides a framework for ensuring that gender balance is embedded in every aspect of our organization and research activities.

Through continuous improvement, clear goals, and active monitoring, we aim to not only enhance gender equality in our own community but also contribute to shaping a more inclusive and equitable global research landscape.